In the latest issue of VOGUE Italia, Think Like A Man Too star Taraji P. Henson dishes on her most challenging roles and how Howard University changed her life. Read the highlights inside and see Mariah Carey on the cover of WONDERLAND.

Hello Hottie! Taraji P. Henson stars in a sizzling pictorial (shot by Itaysha Jordan) for VOGUE Italia. In the accompanying interview, Taraji reveals her most challenging role, who's been influential in her life and what it's like being a Black woman in Hollywood. Here are the highlights:

What is the most challenging aspect of being an actress?

The most challenging aspect of being an actress is being a single mother while navigating my career. I am a mother first.

What is the most rewarding part of being an actress?

The most rewarding part of being an actress is having my performance touch or inspire my audience.

What has been your most challenging role to date and why?

The most challenging role was that of Queenie in The Curious case of Benjamin Button because of the challenges of the aging process. My Mom Bernice and my Grandmother Patsy were my inspirations.

Who were the most instrumental people in your career?

The most instrumental people in my career are my business team that supports me. That starts with my long-term manager Vincent Cirrincione. You need to know the people in your life are looking out for you and have your very best interests at heart.

What did you study at Howard University?

I am a proud graduate of Howard University where I majored in Theatre Arts.

Where did you study acting?

I was fortunate to have incredible teachers and mentors at Howard and I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything. That training prepared me well for the journey ahead.

How was it working with Idris Elba?

Working with Idris Elba is so terrible because he’s so hard to look at !!! Idris is a wonderful human being. We have great chemistry and have become the closest of pals. He flew from London to see my play in Los Angeles. We truly support each other and I'm so excited about our movie coming out in September No Good Deed.

What changes have you seen for actresses of color in the industry over the past 5-10 years?

In the last 10 years I have seen more opportunities for actresses of color but there is still a long way to go.

What changes would you like to see?

I would like to see films that mimic my everyday life and those of my friends. I would like casting to reflect all of the nationalities and all of the colors that make up our lives.

What does your beauty regime look like?

It’s important to keep my hair healthy and strong so I wrap it every night. I give my face a rest from make-up when I can. I make sure I wash my face every night before bed and moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.

Who are your style icons?

My style icons are Diana Ross, Cher and Cate Blanchett.

More gorgeous pics:

In other magazines.....

With a cover photo shot by Terry Richardson, Mariah Carey covers the summer issue of WONDERLAND Magazine (on newsstands Friday). Mimi wore a black lace bra, knickers and suspender set by Agent Provocateur, black silk jacket by Roberto Cavalli, black leather gloves and pearls. Mariach also announced that she'll kick off the TODAY Show Summer COncert series on May 16th.

Also, Mariah earned her 17th No. 1 on Billboard's Dance Club Songs chart this week when "You're Mine (Eternal)" hit the top of the chart.